With a degree in music and a passion for early years development, I created Sing & Play to ensure every family has access to affordable, inclusive, and engaging music and movement experiences.

My favourite part of the sessions is watching children light up when they recognise a song, try something new, or grow in confidence week by week. I love creating calm, playful spaces where little ones can explore at their own pace and grown-ups feel welcome and supported too.

Outside of Sing & Play, you’ll usually find me singing, dancing, and making music with my son, or dreaming up new ideas and themes to bring extra magic into our sessions. 🎶✨

Karen King

Hi, I’m Karen!

I’m Kirsty’s mum and I’m so proud to help support Sing & Play, particularly at our Community Sessions.

I have over 40 years’ experience in education, including extensive work in special educational needs, and I absolutely love seeing children learn, grow, and express themselves through music and play. Supporting inclusive, welcoming spaces where every child feels valued has always been at the heart of my work.

My favourite part of Sing & Play is watching children gain confidence, join in in their own way, and enjoy shared moments of music with their grown-ups. Outside of sessions, I love spending time with my family and crafting.

What is Sing & Play?

Sing & Play is a not-for-profit, mum-run music and movement group for children aged 0-5 and their caregivers. We meet every week to explore singing, play, and movement in a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment. With carefully chosen activities, including nursery rhymes, movement games, and sensory play, the sessions are designed to nurture early development and communication while fostering community connections.

Why Does Sing & Play Exist?

Sing & Play was born from the need to fill a gap left by the closure of Hawkinge Children’s Centre, which provided invaluable free early-years groups. Determined to create a space where families could continue to access music and movement activities without cost barriers, I established Sing & Play. My mission is to ensure that every family, regardless of financial means, can benefit from joyful, enriching activities that support their child’s development and well-being.

What's in a Session?

What Happens at Sing & Play?

Each one-hour session is thoughtfully structured with activities designed to be fun, engaging, and developmental:

Welcome: A cheerful Hello Song introduces everyone and helps children settle while promoting social and communication skills.

Nursery Rhyme Bag: Props selected by the children inspire nursery rhymes, encouraging choice, language, and motor skill development.

Movement Songs: Action-packed fun, from lifting songs to marching games, gets everyone moving and boosts motor coordination.

Percussive Play: A chance for little ones to explore sounds with instruments while caregivers can relax and connect with others.

Parachute Fun: Songs and games under the parachute create exciting opportunities for sensory and social engagement.

Sensory Wind-Down: Scarves, bubbles, and soothing music help children regulate emotions and relax after the active fun.

Goodbye Song: A warm farewell with personal recognition for each child wraps up the session on a positive note.

Why These Activities?

Every element of Sing & Play is designed with intention. From fostering language development and motor skills to creating opportunities for bonding and socialization, the activities support both children and caregivers in meaningful ways. The casual use of British Sign Language (BSL) further aids communication and inclusivity.

Benefits

Benefits for Children

Sing & Play sessions provide:

Social Skills: Opportunities to interact with peers in a safe, supportive space.

Communication Development: Songs, rhymes, and BSL signs promote language and self-expression.

Motor Skills: From action songs to percussive play, activities build coordination and fine motor abilities.

Emotional Regulation: Relaxation activities help children learn to calm themselves.

Educational Growth: Pre-literacy skills like rhyming, prediction, and recognition are introduced through music.

Benefits for Caregivers

Sing & Play isn’t just for the little ones! Caregivers can:

Bond with Their Child: Shared activities encourage meaningful connections and joy.

Build Social Connections: Meet other caregivers and share experiences in a welcoming community.

Combat Isolation: Join a group that offers support and understanding in the journey of parenthood.

Enhance Well-Being: The sessions are as rewarding for caregivers as they are for children, bringing smiles and positive energy to everyone involved.

Support Us

How You Can Help

Sing & Play is a not-for-profit group, run entirely without external funding. We rely on the kindness and generosity of the community to keep the sessions running.

1. Donations: Your contributions go directly towards covering venue hire, purchasing and maintaining supplies like instruments, toys, bubbles, and stickers, and ensuring every family can enjoy free, inclusive sessions.

2. Reviews & Testimonials: Sharing your experiences helps spread the word and encourages others to join or support us.

3. Photos & Videos: With your consent, photos and videos from sessions can highlight the magic of Sing & Play and help us demonstrate the impact of our work.

Looking Ahead: Applying for Grants

To secure the long-term sustainability of Sing & Play, I am actively applying for grants and funding opportunities. This funding would:

Cover ongoing costs, ensuring the sessions remain free to attend.

Allow for the purchase of new instruments, toys, and props to keep the activities fresh and engaging.

Help expand the program to reach more families in our community.

Your support today ensures that Sing & Play can continue to serve families while we work toward more sustainable funding. Thank you for helping us grow!

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